The Highlights
The idea for the event was “to veer away from the highly produced, expensive, spectacular culture of galas that are part and parcel of museum culture and to produce an event that is artist-centric, accessible, pleasurable and reflective of the organization’s values,” said LAXART Director Lauri Firstenberg. To that effect, a large swath of the local art world’s luminaries descended upon Chinatown to mark the occasion, stepping into the venue that had been transformed by Smeraldo’s Lily Lodge florals into a magical cherry blossom den, dotted with year of the snake sculptures and silk fans. Partygoers tucked into a feast of dim sum then immediately turned their attention to the dance floor, where artists including Mary Kelly and Shana Lutker were spotted enjoying a live set by local band The Golden Peacocks. Photos courtesy of Stefanie Keenan/WireImage